The Complete Guide To Glamping

By Jordan Carter

Published 15:44 pm

The Complete Guide To Glamping

The world of camping is a very exciting one which should be experienced by all. However, if you’re looking for an alternative that doesn’t involve sleeping rough and packing for survival, you’re in luck. There are plenty of ways to embrace nature more luxuriously, meaning you can live in comfort yet still get all the benefits of a camping adventure. It’s time to go on a glamping trip…

What Is Glamping?

Glamorous camping, also known as glamping, is an alternative to camping which has a bit more structure. If you’re scratching your head and wondering what we mean by this, basically, glamping involves heading out into the wild but staying in accommodation with warmth, walls, and beds. It really is a more glamorous form of camping.

If you’re the type of person who misses their home comforts on a camping trip or have avoided camping altogether because of this, then glamping is the perfect activity for you.

Types Of Glamping

Just like there are many different types of camping tents, there are many different styles of glamping. You’re likely to experience different accommodation options depending on what glamping location you visit, but the following are the most popular types. You’ll start to wonder why you ever allowed yourself to sleep in a flimsy tent…

Eco-pods: For the environmentalists, eco-pods are energy efficient ‘pods’, structured with a collection of environmentally friendly materials. It’s common for these eco-pods to have glass front and backs so that heat can be felt through the accommodation without having to burn fuels or use electricity. If you want to come away from your glamping trip feeling proud for having a positive impact on the environment, then eco-pods are the ones for you.

Treehouse: For those who aren’t afraid of heights, treehouses will add a sense of adventure to your camping trip. Elevated in the sky with support from trees, treehouses are a popular favorite amongst both children and adults. There’s nothing quite as peaceful as staying in accommodation quite literally out of reach of passers-by.

Tepees: When most people think of glamping, they think of tent-style huts all laid out in a row. Although a common stereotype, this accommodation option is available and goes by the name of ‘tepees’. Inspired by the huts used by native Americans, these tepees can be found fully equipped with everything you need for a pleasant stay, while still giving off the illusion that you are staying in a tent.

Camper Vans: Lots of us have the dream of sleeping in the back of a campervan looking at the stars, and now thanks to glamping, this has become possible! Opting to stay in a camper van is the perfect solution for those looking to travel while glamping. Either kit out your own campervan with comfort essentials or hire a luxury camper van which you can take on your travels. When it’s time to sleep, simply park up and relax.

Yurts: Last on our list of popular camping types are Yurts. Although not the most attractive of names, these Yurts are beautiful dome-like tents which tend to have a fire in the middle. These Yurts have far more structure than typical tents, and the walls tend to be made out of bamboo or wood. You’ll completely forget you’re in the middle of nowhere when you step inside the Yurt, as the interior is kitted out with rugs, furniture, stoves, and much more. For those looking for a more civilized stay, Yurts are the way forward.

Benefits Of Glamping

Just like camping, glamping provides you with tonnes of benefits and worthwhile memories. You’ll not only reap incredible health benefits, but you’ll find yourself grinning from ear to ear for the whole time you’re away thanks to the surprising normal structure of living. As you’ll begin to notice, the benefits of both glamping and traditional camping are very similar, but glamping throws a few more points into the mix. Take a look at these advantages and ask yourself – am I convinced yet?

Real food: When you go camping, you have to plan in advance the foods you are going to eat and make sure that you have enough utensils to prepare the food safely. More times than most, you’ll find yourself eating out of a cold can of beans and longing to be back in your kitchen. When it comes to glamping, however, your accommodation is likely to be kitted out with similar appliances you’ll find at home. Whether it be a stove, kettle, or microwave, it’s guaranteed that you’ll have something to help cook up some proper food.

What is even better, is that you can still revisit traditional camping styles when glamping. Take marshmallows, for example. When night falls, there’s nothing stopping you from sitting around a fire and roasting some marshmallows for s’mores. The only difference here is that you’ll already be full from your dinner and just simply enjoying a sweet snack, rather than relying on it for survival.

Quality bonding time: The most beautiful thing about stepping into nature is that you are leaving modern life behind, and can simply focus on your friends and family. Without the distractions of the outside world, you will find yourself bonding like never before over the activities you do while glamping. Everyone will be feeling a sense of togetherness and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Nature: Not only will being out in nature gives you some quality bonding time, but it will also give you incredible health benefits, both physically and mentally. Studies have proved that spending more time outdoors will have a positive impact on your mental health, creating a less-cluttered and happier mind. As well as this, you’ll want to explore your surroundings, meaning you’ll be giving your body a workout at the same time.

Good nights sleep: Say good-bye to the aches and pains you would get from sleeping on the floor when camping; glamping will give you some ultimate comfort. It’s highly likely that your accommodation will have a bed very similar to the one you’d have at home. If not, you’ll still have a comfy inflatable air mattress and camping blanket to snuggle in to. Glamping really is a home away from home, and you shouldn’t have to spend your whole experience waking up feeling groggy and achy.You’ll also find yourself in a great sleeping routine if you are away for long enough. You will go to bed at reasonable times due to being so exhausted from a fun day of activities, and, you’ll want to wake up early enough to catch the sunrise. Glamping really is the ultimate sleep detox!

A proper vacation: Getaways are meant to leave you feeling well-rested and prepared to return to the busy workings of daily life. There’s a common misconception that camping isn’t a ‘vacation’, as it involves a lot of prepping and survival techniques. Glamping, however, should most certainly be classed as a vacation! You will be visiting an unfamiliar, beautiful, destination and putting your feet up for a few days. There’s no worry of work, washing, chores, and so on. Escape the ordinary and experience a glamping holiday.

A sense of adventure without stress: A glamping trip is certainly not a stressful experience. As you can see, the structure of accommodation is very similar to what you would find in a hotel or even at home, so you’ll never find yourself stressing about what food to eat! As well as this, the majority of glamping resorts will offer a huge range of activities, meaning you will always be kept entertained.

Great Glamping Destinations In The USA

So, it’s clear that glamping should be tried out by all of us, but where can we go for the best experience? What resorts are worth visiting? Luckily, as glamping has risen in popularity, more and more incredible resorts have opened. Below, you can discover some of the most commended glamping locations to date.

1. Under Canvas: Grand Canyon, Arizona

Based within the wonderful woodland just off Route 66, the Under Canvas resort features a range of different tepee-style accommodation. Sitting at the base of Bill Williams Mountain, you will find yourself in awe at the natural beauty of your surroundings. If you wish to stargaze, opt for ‘The Stargazer’ glamping tent. This tent has its own viewing window, meaning you can relax in bed while looking at the night sky. Under Canvas provides you with an amazing serene experience.

2. Ventana: Big Sur

For those looking for a luxurious glamping experience, Ventana Big Sur is the place to head. This resort offers a very hotel-like experience, with daily room service and hot-drinks on demand. With a variety of tents to choose from, you’ll find yourself sleeping in a king-size bed equipped with a proper mattress and heated blankets. You won’t run short of activities, either, as the 160-forested acre glamp-site has pools and fitness centers waiting for you to use.

3. Bali House & Bali Cottage: Hawaii

If being nestled in a woodland wilderness doesn’t appeal, then don’t panic; a glamping trip can still be achieved! Situated on Kehena Beach, the Bali House & Bali Cottage accommodation will provide you with a fully equipped service, but with views of beaches instead of trees. This beach paradise resort will certainly keep you busy, as you will have access to a spa and a range of different water activities. You’ll certainly be on a very unique glamping experience at Bali House & Bali Cottage, Hawaii.

4. El Cosmico: Marfa, Texas

Located in the high plains desert, the bohemian inspired El Cosmico resort will certainly give you a spectacular glamping experience. Perhaps more rustic than previous resorts we’ve mentioned, El Cosmico is the perfect destination for glampers looking to release their wild side and enjoy what nature has to offer. Featuring, yurts, tepees, trailers and more, you’ll be sure to find an accommodation option perfect for your preferences. A personal favorite of ours is the Cosmic Kasita, which is the ultimate micro-home with an extraordinary exterior.

5. Camp Chana, Fishtail Ranch: New Mexico

If you enjoy the sense of adventure provided by both camping and glamping, why not head to Camp Chana? You’ll find yourself living completely off the grid in specially designed tents that let you embrace the natural air. It’s unlikely that you’ll be in your tent often though, as the main features of Camp Chana are the fishing, shooting, and horseback riding spots which you can join in with. If you want to try a new activity or want to spend a getaway doing a sport you love, then Camp Chana will be the best retreat for you!

6. Trout Ranch: Cody, Wyoming

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly resort which has unique accommodation, then Trout Ranch is worth looking in to. Whether you choose to stay on the RV site or in the uniquely structured tepees, it’s guaranteed that you will feel absolute peace and tranquillity while pitched out along the Shoshone river bank. Perfect for those looking for a challenge, the nearby trout hatchery gives you the chance to catch your own fish to have for dinner. Not for the faint-hearted, but a great activity for those wanting to get the full wilderness experience.

Is Glamping For You?

Whether you decide to take a short weekend away or stay for the whole week, we can guarantee that you will fall in love with the glamping experience and what it has to offer. You will find yourself counting down the days to get away again, with a taste of curiosity as you try out all of the accommodation options available. Glamping truly is a memorable experience which is suitable for all ages, so whether you are going alone or with your family, you’ll find yourself having great enjoyment no matter what.

Mix things up on your next getaway and try out the glamping life, you won’t regret it! Who knows, you might even be able to transition the minds of some well-seasoned campers.